Scarborough all set to party

SCARBOROUGH is set to party as plans are put in motion to turn the town red, white and blue for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Street parties will be springing up all over Scarborough throughout the jubilee weekend, from June 2 to 5.

New figures reveal that more than 30 community groups have had training from Scarborough Council to learn about holding street parties.

Party fever is already taking hold as Council supplies of free Union Jack bunting have already ran out.

Matthew Joseph, neighbourhood support officer at the council, who is delivering the training, said: “Over the past two years the Council has run an initiative to promote street parties to increase community cohesion and promote neighbourliness.

“In 2010 a campaign was run to co-incide with the Big Lunch initiative and in 2011 to help streets and communities with street party celebrations for the Royal Weddings.

“We have now trained between 35 and 40 groups, and from what we understand a number of these are utilising their training and experience to run street parties for this year’s jubilee celebrations. Hopefully we have encouraged people to do it, and the idea of street parties will grow.

“We want to alleviate some of the concerns about health and safety, risk assessments and insurance. It’s not about the council telling people not to do this an not to do that. We want to help people put together their street parties and enjoy them.”

The latest areas to take up street party training are Quarry Mount, Spring Bank, Barrowcliff and Sandybed.

Also joining the bid to boost street parties is North Yorkshire County Council which has announced it is waiving is usual road closure costs.

For further information or to enquire about receiving free street party training contact Mr Joseph on (01723) 383562 or email matthew.joseph@scarborough.gov.uk

Are you planning at street party for the Diamond Jubilee? If so contact the Scarborough Evening News on (01723) 383817 or email newsdesk@yrnltd.co.uk